Ambassador Theatre Group Productions have announced that Player Kings, adapted by Robert Icke from William Shakespeare’s Henry IV, Parts 1 and 2, and starring Ian McKellen as John Falstaff, will play at London’s Noel Coward Theatre from 1 April-22 June 2024.

Directed by Robert Icke, the production will preview at New Wimbledon Theatre from 1 March – 9 March 2024, and Manchester Opera House from 14 – 23 March 2024.

A divided country, leadership crumbling, corruption in the air. Welcome to England.

Hal wasn't born to be king. Only now, it seems, he will be. His father longs for him to leave behind his friends in the taverns of Eastcheap, most notably the infamous John Falstaff. War is on the horizon. But will Hal ever come good?

Robert Icke said: “It’s a genuine honour to work with one of our greatest Shakespearean actors, Ian McKellen, especially as he tackles one of the most iconic Shakespearean roles - and one he's previously never turned his hand to. It’s an exciting challenge to bring together two of Shakespeare’s plays into one production, and I’m so excited to share Player Kings with audiences in the West End and across the country. I'm also thrilled that we'll have at least 60 dedicated £30 tickets for those under 30 at every performance, including in some prime spots in the auditorium.”

Ian McKellen also commented: “I decided to become a professional actor at Cambridge in 1959, when I was in John Barton’s undergraduate production of Henry IV. Derek Jacobi played Prince Hal and I was the ancient Justice Shallow. Ever since, the plays have been among my favourite Shakespeares, although through the years I’ve resisted offers to play John Falstaff. Robert Icke’s ingenious adaptation was irresistible.”

The production features design by Hildegard Bechtler, with lighting by Lee Curran, sound by Gareth Fry, and casting by Julia Horan.

Tickets for New Wimbledon Theatre and Manchester Opera House are available to ATG+ members (15 November) at 12pm, with general booking open from tomorrow (16 November) at 10am here.

Tickets for Noël Coward Theatre will be available to DMT+ Priority on 20 November at 10am, and those signed up for priority booking at 12pm; general booking opens on 21 November at 10am.

For more information, please click here.